Onward: It’s Time to Think About How Your Business Operates, Not Just That It Does

The legendary business book “The E Myth” discusses the difference between working “in” a business and working “on” a business.  It turns out that subtle prepositional shift means a whole lot.

Those who work “in” a business focus on moving the day-to-day operations of that business forward.  You’re getting out the paperwork.  You’re tracking and billing for time.  You’re discussing a particular case issue with a staff person.

Those who work “on” a business are focused on moving the business forward in a fundamental way.  You’re trying to get after what your best long-term marketing tactics are.  You’re thinking about the best categories of employees to complete your optimal staff arrangement.  You’re figuring out your BHAG, and trying to approach it.

The thrust of the proposition is that those business owners who focus on ways to improve their businesses are more likely to actually improve their businesses.  That’s common sense, as effort usually yields results.  Of course, it’s impossible for most small business owners to focus on business management all of the time — you need to do all of the little things to keep your business running.  But, even if you set aside a small amount of time to consider the larger workings of your business, you’re well beyond what your colleagues are doing — and, that’s a huge competitive advantage.

Setting aside the time to better manage your business operations is not easy; but, if you can even assess an extra hour a week, it will inure to your benefit.

. . .

If you need to better focus on what your business is and means, we can help.

The Wyoming State Bar offers free law practice management consulting services through Red Cave Law Firm Consulting.  To request a consult, visit the Wyoming State Bar’s law practice management page, and start running your law firm like a business.

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